Ground Control

Wow can’t believe it has been 7 days since my last post.  I surly have to get a handle on being more consistent.  Traveling no connection-no excuses.  As I begin this post I realize that there is so much to learn when you first start machine embroidery and so far I have talked about just plain getting familiar with your machine and might I ad comfortable with using it.  The very next thing I would like to ad is a little knowledge about NEEDLES.  I am no expert, but have found in my way BIG TRIAL AND ERROR, that most of us put in the recommended needle or just start embroidering with the needle supplied with the machine and figure we are good to go until some devistating thread nest bogs us down or gets so bad it breaks the needle and we are forced to learn that most important step.  The embroidery machine is a wondrous dream when it runs clicity clack along, but there are several  things that will keep that sound, you know the one that says to you oh it’s running so smoothly how happy is my heart, we need to attend to on a regular basis.  It is most amazing that we and I include myself in this, will expend thousands of dollars to purchase this marvelous advancement in sewing technology, but refrain from changing the tiniest yet integral part of the process until we are desperate to find some problem that we just can’t fathom.  I would like to take a moment and say check your guide and READ the information on NEEDLES and find out the recommendations for your particular brand. 

Now hear this!!!  My recommendation is change your needle often it will help the melody of happy sewing humming along steadily.  There are many distinct needles for every type of project, thread and designs.  Keep in mind that everything we stitch out does not have to run a full throttle.  Use a metallic needle, and slow the speed when running metalic thread and there are even different types of metallic thread so be aware of  just what type you are using.  I have found that when you start hearing a change in  that happy humming sound it is time to check the needle or check the threading of the machine.  For me 9 times out of 10 if the happy humming  sound starts to have a pop pop rhythm it is time to change the needle.  You can take that needle out and look it over with a magnifying glass or set it down on a flat surface to see if it lies flat and truly you cannot visually see anything wrong with it and you probably never will IT LOOKS JUST FINE.  Don’t fall into that trap discard it and replace it with a new needle and trust me it will be a  better hummer.

Shame on Me I should have started this whole blog with THIS INFORMATION!!!  Please be aware of your body and take some time to stretch and get up and walk around.  It is so easy to get engrossed and spend the whole day without ever thinking that your body like the machine needs attention.  I have spent many hours just watching the stitch out and it still is fascinating to me.  I have finally been courageous enough to do some dusting or search for more thread or endeavor to get my house in order while continuing to listen for that happy humming sound.

With all my heart I hope that in embroidering you do what you love and love what you do.  May your days and nights be filled with joy.